“First and foremost, I thank God, and second, I thank them because this assistance is a huge help for my livelihood,” expressed a grateful Tatay Oliver, a fisherman from the town of Lubao, during the distribution of financial aid by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on January 24, 2025.

Tatay Oliver is one of the 2,307 residents from the towns of Lubao and Sasmuan who received assistance after their livelihoods were severely impacted by the recent oil spill that affected the province of Bataan.

In behalf of Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, Sasmuan Mayor Catalina Cabrera, and Lubao Mayor Esmie Pineda led the distribution of the financial aid to the beneficiaries.

Also present at the event was former DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., who visited the affected residents, alongside Board Members Fritzie David-Dizon, Sajid Khan Eusoof, SK Federation President JC Cruz, and Atty. Jun Canlas.

This financial assistance aims to provide immediate relief to those whose livelihoods were disrupted by the oil spill, demonstrating the collaborative efforts of local government officials and agencies in supporting the welfare of affected communities.